Hey Eduardo, I went through the exact same thing last year and I totally get how scary and confusing this is! The whole "benefit year vs. benefit amount" thing really trips people up. A few things that helped me when I was in your shoes: First, definitely apply for CalFresh ASAP - the process can take a few weeks but it'll help with groceries. Also look into your county's General Relief/General Assistance program - some counties offer small monthly cash payments for people who don't qualify for other programs. Second, consider expanding your job search to include temp agencies, gig work (DoorDash, Uber, TaskRabbit), or even seasonal retail since we're heading into spring hiring season. Any income will help you meet that $1,300 threshold for a future claim AND give you something to live on now. Lastly, check if your local library offers free career services - mine had resume workshops and job search resources that were actually really helpful. You've got this! The next 6 months will be tough but you're definitely not the first person to figure this out.

I'm so sorry this happened to you! This is honestly one of the most confusing aspects of the EDD system and you're definitely not alone in being caught off guard by it. The "benefit year" vs "maximum benefit amount" distinction is really poorly explained when you first apply. Just wanted to add a couple more resources that might help while you're figuring things out: - Check if your city/county has any emergency rental assistance programs still running - some areas still have COVID relief funds available for rent/utilities - Food banks don't require any paperwork and can help immediately while you wait for CalFresh to process - Some churches and community organizations offer small emergency grants for people between jobs, even if you're not a member - 211 (dial 2-1-1) is a free service that can connect you with local assistance programs you might not know about Also, when you do call EDD, ask them to mail you a "Notice of Computation" if you haven't received one already. This breaks down exactly how they calculated your benefit amount and can help you understand what to expect if you file a new claim later. Keep your head up - 6 months is actually pretty good for benefits to last, and the job market is picking up in a lot of sectors right now. You'll get through this!

I'm in a similar situation! Filed my appeal 3 weeks ago after being wrongfully disqualified (they said I quit but I was actually terminated due to budget cuts). The waiting is absolutely torture, especially when you're running low on funds. From what I've read here and other forums, it seems like 6-8 weeks is pretty standard right now. One thing that's helped me stay sane is creating a daily routine and keeping busy with job searching. I've also started volunteering a few hours a week which helps with the mental health aspect of being unemployed. Hang in there - it sounds like you have a strong case with the downsizing documentation. The waiting sucks but you're not alone in this!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed my appeal about 5 weeks ago after being wrongfully disqualified (employer claimed I abandoned my job when I was actually laid off due to company restructuring). The waiting is absolutely brutal, especially when you're watching your bank account dwindle. From everything I've read here and experienced myself, 6-8 weeks seems to be the current timeline, though some people are reporting longer waits. I've been calling the Appeals Board number that Tate mentioned (916-263-6589) once a week just to check status - they can't speed it up but at least they confirm your appeal is in the system. One thing that's helped me cope is treating this waiting period like a part-time job - I spend a few hours each day job searching, organizing my appeal documents, and researching tips for the hearing. It gives me some sense of control in this powerless situation. Stay strong - it sounds like you have solid evidence with those downsizing emails. We'll get through this!

Glad to hear your payment processed! For anyone else reading this who's still having issues, here's what I've learned from my experience: 1. Normal system delays usually resolve within 24-48 hours 2. If it goes beyond that, there might be a specific issue with your claim 3. Don't wait weeks hoping it'll resolve itself - after 3-4 days, try to contact EDD 4. Check UI Online for any notices about interviews or additional information needed 5. If you've hit your benefit year end or approaching maximum benefits, expect delays The EDD system isn't perfect, but usually these pending issues do resolve one way or another.

I'm dealing with the same issue right now! Certified yesterday morning and it's still showing pending. This is my first time experiencing a delay like this - usually switches to paid within a few hours. Reading through everyone's experiences here is actually really reassuring though. Sounds like system delays are more common than I thought. Going to wait until Thursday like some others suggested before trying to call EDD. Fingers crossed it resolves on its own!

Glad you got it sorted out! Direct deposit is definitely the way to go.

Great to hear you got it resolved! Just a heads up - while you're waiting for your replacement card, you can also use the Money Network mobile app to check your balance and transaction history. And if you need to access funds before the new card arrives, you can transfer money from your Money Network account to your bank account online (though there might be a small fee). The direct deposit switch was smart - no more worrying about lost cards!

UPDATE: I submitted my appeal yesterday explaining the situation with the misdelivered mail. I also attached screenshots of all my work search activities that should have qualified me for benefits in the first place. Using the Claimyr service someone suggested here, I actually got through to an EDD rep who said they would add notes to my account about the mail issue. They couldn't guarantee anything but said the ALJ would be able to see those notes when reviewing my case. Now just waiting for my hearing date. Thanks everyone for the helpful advice - will update again when I hear more!

Great job getting your appeal submitted so quickly! That was smart to use Claimyr to actually speak with someone at EDD. Just wanted to add a few tips for your upcoming hearing preparation: 1. Print out EVERYTHING - your work search log, job applications, screenshots of job postings you applied to, etc. Bring multiple copies in case the judge wants them. 2. Practice explaining your work search activities clearly and concisely. Be specific about dates, company names, and what type of positions you applied for. 3. If you have any email confirmations from employers acknowledging your applications, bring those too as proof. 4. Stay calm during the hearing - the judges deal with these cases all day and just want to understand what really happened. You're in a much better position now that you've filed quickly after receiving the notice and have documentation. Fingers crossed for you!